Neubrandenburg (dpa/mv) - Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier honored traditional choirs and orchestras from Germany in Neubrandenburg today. He awards the Zelter badge to choirs and the Pro Musica badge to orchestra associations. Both awards honor ensembles that have been in existence for 100 years - they are the highest honors for amateur musicians.
The ceremony from 11 a.m. in the Neubrandenburg concert church is considered the highlight of the days of choral and orchestral music, which began on Friday and lasts until Sunday. Local music clubs, regional choirs and a wide variety of instrumental and vocal ensembles from all over Germany perform.
At the ceremony, one choir and one instrumental ensemble each received a plaque representing all those honored this year. This year, these are the Mahlow 1912 Mixed Choir from Mahlow (Brandenburg) and the Berlin Doctors' Orchestra. A total of 63 Zelter and 44 Pro Musica badges are to be awarded. The awards have been given since 1956 and 1968 respectively.
